R&B Legend Natalie Cole Has Passed Away at the Age of 65

The music world mourns the loss of an icon, as it has been revealed by TMZ that R&B legend Natalie Cole has died at the age of 65. The singer reportedly passed away early Thursday morning (Jan. 1) at a Los Angeles hospital.

A rep for Cole provided the following statement to TMZ: “It is with heavy hearts that we bring to you all the news of our Mother and sister's passing. Natalie fought a fierce, courageous battle, dying how she lived..with dignity, strength and honor. Our beloved Mother and sister will be greatly missed and remain UNFORGETTABLE in our hearts forever.”

Cole had been recently battling health issues due to complications from a kidney transplant and Hepatitis C, and was forced to cancel several tour dates in December, including a New Years Eve concert at Disney Hall in Los Angeles. The singer had battled substance abuse in the past, as documented in her 2000 autobiography Angel on My Shoulder.

The Grammy-award winning singer was the daughter of legendary Nat King Cole and had several No. 1 R&B hits, including "Inseparable," "This Will Be," and "Our Love." In 1992, Natalie added her own vocals to her father's 1951 hit "Unforgettable." This remix earned her three Grammy awards, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year.